5 steps to a successful campaign to raise money on Facebook

By Francis Navarro, Komando.com

Facebook is the world's biggest social media service and it's where more than a billion people primarily connect with friends, get information and be in the social loop. Aside from its traditional services, the company is increasingly branching out into other areas such as classified ads (Marketplace), local business marketing (Professional Services), nonprofit donations and even money services.

In line with this expansion, Facebook is hoping to build a viable and sustainable community that ordinary people can turn to for financial support. With the rollout of Personal Fundraisers in the next few weeks, the social media site is counting on its reach and popularity to help individuals raise money and create fundraising causes for themselves.

Soon, it won't be just nonprofit or charity organizations that can do fundraisers, even individuals can raise money too. Think of it as Facebook's version of GoFundMe.

To get a leg up when the program rolls out, assuming you are really in need, here are tips that can help you start your first Personal Fundraiser and increase your chances of success.

1. Make your campaign stand out

First impressions count and it will give your campaign a better chance of getting shared. To get people to rally around your cause and truly empathize with your plight, use actual, personal photos or videos of the individuals involved in the funding campaign. Avoid using stock graphics and text. Make it look as professional as possible and use the clearest and best photos you can find.